This industry comprises funds primarily engaged in investing in a specialized (except real estate) or a diversified portfolio of securities and other investments on behalf of their shareholders/unit holders. Shares are offered in an initial public offering, after which additional shares are offered continuously. Shares are redeemed at the market price, as determined by the net asset value.

This industry comprises funds that are separate investment accounts established by life insurers under the provisions of the Canadian and British Insurance Companies Act, or the corresponding sections of the Foreign Insurance Companies Act or a provincial act. Setting up of these funds allows life insurers' policyholders to invest in funds that are not subject to the investment restriction in effect on the insurers' portfolio as contained in the insurance act.

This industry comprises funds and financial vehicles, not classified to any other class, such as special purpose trusts, closed-end funds and securitization vehicles.